Firearm charges in Indiana carry serious consequences. Even if you believe the situation was minor or unintentional, prosecutors often pursue the maximum penalties for illegal possession, use, or transfer of a firearm. Facing such charges can affect your freedom, employment, and long-term reputation.
At Hayes Law Office, attorney Philip Hayes brings over 20 years of experience defending people throughout Indianapolis against a wide range of criminal charges, including firearm cases. The firm is here to give you straightforward legal advice and strong representation when so much is at stake.
Common Firearm Charges in Indiana
Even though Indiana allows many people to legally own and carry firearms, there are still limits and restrictions. Some of the most common charges people face include:
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Unlawful possession of a firearm – often charged as a misdemeanor if you don’t have the proper license or are otherwise restricted.
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Possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon – a felony charge that can carry years in prison.
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Carrying a firearm on school property – treated very seriously under state law.
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Brandishing or pointing a firearm – even if no shots are fired, pointing a gun at someone can still lead to criminal charges.
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Altering a serial number or identifying mark – this can lead to felony penalties.
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Possession of certain prohibited weapons – such as machine guns or sawed-off shotguns.
Sometimes people are charged simply for having a firearm in the wrong place, storing it incorrectly in a vehicle, or misunderstanding what the law allows. In other cases, prosecutors pursue the maximum penalties if a firearm is connected to another alleged crime, such as assault, robbery, or drug offenses.
Penalties for Gun Charges
The penalties for a firearm offense in Indiana depend on the specific charge and your prior record. Some examples include:
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Carrying a handgun without a license – up to one year in jail and fines of up to $5,000.
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Aggravated unlicensed carry – if you commit another crime while unlawfully carrying, the offense can become a felony with one to six years in prison.
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Straw purchasing a firearm – buying a gun for someone not legally allowed to own one can mean felony charges.
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Reckless use of a firearm – firing a gun in a way that puts people or property at risk can bring jail time, even if no one is hurt.
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Pointing a firearm – pointing a loaded firearm at another person can be charged as a felony; if unloaded, it can still be a misdemeanor.
What makes these cases especially stressful is that prosecutors and judges often see firearms as aggravating factors. That means if a gun is involved, the case can automatically be treated more seriously.
Why You Need a Firearm Defense Attorney
Gun charges are not the kind of case you want to handle alone or leave to chance. Even a misdemeanor firearm conviction can leave you with a criminal record, affect your ability to legally own guns, and cause problems when applying for jobs or housing. Felony convictions are even more damaging, with long-term effects on your future. A skilled Indianapolis firearm defense lawyer can:
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Review whether the police search and seizure of the weapon was lawful.
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Challenge whether the state can actually prove you were in possession of the firearm.
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Look for opportunities to reduce or dismiss the charges.
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Negotiate for alternatives to jail time if a conviction is unavoidable.
At Hayes Law Office, every case is approached with the goal of protecting your rights and giving you the best chance at moving forward.
Defending Your Future
Being charged with a firearm offense can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first time facing the criminal justice system. You may feel like the odds are stacked against you, but you do have options. With the right defense strategy, it may be possible to limit the damage, protect your record, and in some cases, avoid a conviction altogether.
Attorney Philip Hayes has defended clients across Indianapolis for more than two decades. He understands Indiana gun laws, knows how prosecutors build their cases, and uses that knowledge to fight for his clients.
Talk to an Indianapolis Firearm Defense Lawyer
If you or someone you care about is facing firearm charges in Indiana, don’t wait to get legal help. The earlier you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of building a strong defense. Call Hayes Law Office today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with an Indianapolis firearm defense lawyer who understands what you are going through.
